Battery Light... Help Please

[mrleadoff_45]

The battery light on my 2001 zx2 flickers on and off. I checked the batter, its fine, hopefully. Any suggestions

[zx2srdotnet]

maybe alternater is haveing problems.

[mrleadoff_45]

its the alt i did the take off the negative thing

[zx2srdotnet]

i remember hearing that not a good test though

[mrleadoff_45]

so taking the negative off the battery isnt a sure thing kind of test, if not what is? Cause I dont really want to bring it to a shop, cant afford that till January, thanks

[zx2srdotnet]

i jut herared its not, im not sure on that, go to pepboys or an auto place store and see if it can be tested, should cost much.

[mrleadoff_45]

k, thx

[jeffcoslacker]

Originally Posted by zx2srdotnet

i jut herared its not, im not sure on that, go to pepboys or an auto place store and see if it can be tested, should cost much.

Yeah, that doesn't apply anymore. Used to be you could do that and tell if it was putting out, but since the beginning of computer control, the sudden current spike when the cable is disconnected causes shutdown to protect the electronics. It's not good for the computer, so don't keep doing it.

Check (or have someone check) the voltage at the battery with the engine idling, lights and heater on, should have at the very least 13.1 volts, better to have about 14, if below 13, your alt/regulator is shot.

AutoZone will test the voltage output for free.

[mrleadoff_45]

thx..... whats a alternator run on a zx2 2001 roughly...

[zx2srdotnet]

no idea, i want to say $250 though. I might be way off

[chrisd25]

maybe you should check your starter, it happened to mine a couple of weeks ago. changed my starter and it was fine. if you know anybody who is looking for zx2 modes and need idea check out my web site www.escortzx2hawaii.zoomshare.com

[Davescort97]

You can get a rebuilt at Auto Zone for around $125. If you disconnect the positive on the battery and engine still runs the alternator is good. Usually, when the light flickers, it means the brushes are worn to the extent that the springs won't exert enough force on them for them to work. Your alternator has external brushes. You don't have to spllit the case to put new ones in. They are $12 at Auto Zone. Or like I said before, get a rebuilt one for about $125.

[chrisd25]

You can get an alternator for $99.00 just go on partsamerica.com and print out the one you want and take it to any checker auto parts and they will match the price. good deal